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12,197 ft · Lemhi Range, Idaho

Diamond Peak

Diamond Peak is a 12,197 ft peak in the Lemhi Range, Idaho. The standard route is the Southeast Ridge: 6 mi, 4,606 ft of gain, Class 3.

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Diamond Peak in the Lemhi Range, Idaho

Diamond Peak at a glance

  • Elevation12,197 ft3,717 m
  • RouteSoutheast RidgeClass 3
  • Distance6 mi4,606 ft gain
  • Time6 – 8 hrsVery Hard effort
  • SeasonJul – Sep
  • RangeLemhi RangeIdaho

Climbing the Southeast Ridge

From the Mud Lake area northwest of Idaho Falls, Idaho, follow dirt roads toward the Lemhi Range to reach the base of the Southeast Ridge; high clearance is recommended. This is a steep Class 3 scramble on notoriously loose rock, with real rockfall potential and exposure near the summit. Snow and ice can linger high into summer, and storms with high wind arrive fast in this remote range. Wear a helmet, test holds, and keep your party close to avoid knocking rocks. Start early, carry navigation and extra layers, and be prepared for a serious, committing climb far from any services.

Gear and hazards

What to bring

  • Backpack (25–35 L)
  • Hiking Boots
  • Helmet
  • Base Layer
  • Midlayer
  • Insulated Jacket
  • Hardshell Jacket
  • Hardshell Pants
  • Sun Hat
  • Warm Hat
  • Buff
  • Midweight Gloves
  • Trekking Poles
  • Headlamp
  • GPS Device
  • Satellite Communicator
  • Power Bank
  • Offline Maps
  • Water
  • First-Aid Kit
  • Whistle
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen

What to watch for

  • Steep exposure
  • Loose rock
  • Rockfall
  • Snow near summit
  • Ice near summit
  • Technical climbing
  • High altitude
  • Storms
  • High winds
  • Remote location
  • Altitude sickness
  • Low visibility

Quests with Diamond Peak

Frequently asked questions

How tall is Diamond Peak?

Diamond Peak is 12,197 feet (3,717 m) tall. It is in the Lemhi Range, Idaho.

How hard is it to climb Diamond Peak?

The Southeast Ridge is Class 3, which means scrambling, where you use your hands to climb and a fall could be serious. Yak rates the overall effort very hard: 6 miles with 4,606 feet of elevation gain.

How long does it take to climb Diamond Peak?

Most people take 6 – 8 hours round trip on the Southeast Ridge, covering 6 miles with 4,606 feet of elevation gain, so most people do it in a day.

Is Diamond Peak dangerous to climb?

It has real risks: exposed sections where a fall would be serious, rockfall from loose rock and fast-changing weather. Go with an experienced partner, wear a helmet, test holds before you trust them and turn back if the rock is wet or icy.

Do you need a helmet for Diamond Peak?

It is a good idea. Loose rock and rockfall are common on the Southeast Ridge, so a helmet is on the gear list.

Will you get altitude sickness on Diamond Peak?

You might. Most people feel the altitude above 8,000 feet, and Diamond Peak reaches 12,197 feet. Spend a night or two at elevation first, drink plenty of water and turn back if a headache, nausea or dizziness gets worse.

What time should you start climbing Diamond Peak?

Early. Afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer, so aim to be off the summit and the exposed upper mountain by early afternoon.

When is the best time to climb Diamond Peak?

The usual climbing window is July to September. Outside it, expect snow, storms or closed access, and check the summit forecast before you go.

What is the trailhead elevation for Diamond Peak?

The Southeast Ridge starts at about 7,560 feet, roughly 4,637 feet below the summit.

Climb Diamond Peak with Yak

Plan your route on a topo map, check the summit forecast, then log your climb and see what is left on your list

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